Oct 03, 2008

Thanks, in part, to the return of Gossip Girl and a resurgence of all things preppy, argyle is back in a big way. But how does one pull it off without looking like Chuck Bass?  

Pair a classic argyle sweater with slightly distressed jeans and a modern cropped bomber jacket. Add some animal print ballet flats to de-preppify the look, and throw in a colorful pendant to break up the argyle pattern. Finally, grab a shiny patent tote and cozy grey scarf before heading out the door.

7 For All Mankind Jeans, $155

Pear Pendant, $57.50

Cyndi Patent Tote, $2030

Bomber Jacket, $495

Ribbed Scarf , $122.50

Leopard Flats, $20

You can also view this set right now on Polyvore.com where we welcome all of our readers to join the SheFinds Group and create your own sets, letting us know what you'd wear pair with preppy argyle.

Sep 25, 2008

As a grad student there are three things that inevitably influence my choice of dress:

1. If it's not on sale, forget it.
2. I don't get paid to sit through three hour lectures and live in the library, so comfort is paramount.
3. At this stage in the game, you have to look the part. Suits are slightly overkill, but looking polished and put together is of utmost importance.

Slim cut, dark wash jeans or dress pants with a touch of stretch are clean looking, but easy going. These Diesel Lowky Jeans ($167) are hot, but classy. With jeans, a tailored suit jacket or wool blazer ($235) looks smart over a plain white tee ($49).

Depending on where I plan to wind up after class, I choose between cute, no-fuss flats (for a date with the library) or classic pumps ($55) (for drinks with the girls). Jewelry stays simple with plain diamond studs ($195) and a pendant ($698). As for the rest of the accessories, a big, sturdy bag ($40) is a must for my books, and a scarf ($87) for cooler days is crucial. The outfit isn't complete without a classic trench ($225) to bring it all together.

Sep 24, 2008

Having worked in corporate America for almost my entire career, particularly in banking (at least for now <cough>), dressing for work is just as conservative as most other corporate or legal offices. Dressing for success here is simple: put your cash into investment pieces, purchase trends around them, and you will always be dressed for the job you want - not just the one you have. By investment pieces, I mean a beautifully tailored suit, a great watch, gorgeous pumps, and a quality bag.

I tend to purchase “suits” by pulling together separates of the same line and then having them professionally tailored to make sure that they really fit well. Colors? It’s corporate, ladies, so always have black, charcoal grey, navy, and chocolate brown in your closet. I own this Theory Neela – Pinto Jacket ($365) and  Theory Mark B – Pinto Pants ($245) set.

When selecting a watch, there’s something quite sexy and powerful about a woman wearing an oversized men’s watch. This MICHAEL Michael Kors Jet Set Sport Watch ($225) is dressy enough for the office but classic enough to take you into the weekend. 

You can MAYBE skimp on other details but everybody notices when someone comes to the office with accessories that are falling apart. That being said, I tend to get the most compliments with reliable and cost-effective Nine West accessories, like these Kelsey Boutique 9 Pumps ($135) and this Laptop Tote ($99). 

Seen most recently on the Emmys' red carpet, lace is one huge trend this fall. From dresses to blouses to the occasional frilly coat, the fabric formerly reserved for petticoats and lampshade trim is having its moment as the fashion it-kid. But how does one wear it without looking dated?

A black lace dress is pretty much a no-fail way to pull off the trend. The key to creating a modern look is to pair with modern accessories. A powerful cocktail ring and eclectic necklace will mix well with the old-fashioned lace. Slip on some black tights, and masculine black boots to rough up the dress. A simple, unfrilly black clutch will complement your accessories. And finally, opt for a bright overcoat that stands out against the black. 

Miu Miu Princess Coat, $1320 

Black Shell Minaudiere, $400

Black Agate Square Necklace, $175 

Quartz Star Ring, $340

Darbey Boots, $300

You can also view this set right now on Polyvore.com where we welcome all of our readers to join the SheFinds Group and create your own sets, letting us know what you'd wear pair with this fall's lace. 

Sep 22, 2008

As you already know, many of our writers don't spend their entire existences hunting down trends and deals for SheFinds. A lot of them actually have to put in face time at different offices around the country. So we had to to find out - what do you ladies wear to work?

First up, SheFindsChristine: 

Working in the magazine publishing industry, I have a little more flexibility than those in a corporate environment. But there is one downside - I have to try and look as fashionably pulled together as possible every single day. Some of you might think it would be fun to be practically dressed in cocktail attire during the day as well as the night, but it's like public high school vs private school; you'd be surprised how much those private school kids will tell you how easy it is to just get up and throw on a uniform everyday. 

The upside, however, is keeping up on fashion trends for a living. Ease your way into fall with these great styles—but only wear them to work if it's completely appropriate.

In most work environments it's inappropriate to go sleeveless - but not in magazines. I've actually seen women in tube dresses, those new liquid leather stirrups, and super short Herve Leger bandage dresses. So a loose fitting tank top doesn't make me worry about getting fired for inappropriate clothing. This silk ruffle front 5-button top ($216) pairs perfectly tucked into a pencil skirt. I love finding twists on the basics to spice things up a bit, like this black tiered double-knit pencil skirt ($69).

In magazines there are no limits on shoes—the more outrageous, the better. These 4 1/2 inch patent leather black peep toe pumps  ($154) are a great late summer transitioning into fall shoe for the office. A big bag goes without saying in these environments. This Cynthia Rowley black leather bag is 13" x 16" x 5.5" for $425. Accessories must not be overlooked. The S&M style cuffs are just what you'll need to get a leg up against the rest in the lunch room. Be bold and wear these faux snakeskin cuffs ($28) on both wrists.

And be sure to check out our What to Wear to Work Guide for more pointers on how to get dressed for any office.   

Sep 19, 2008

Recently, our favorite Runway Recap-er, Casey, had the most bizarre experience--she actually found a gold medal on an airplane that had fallen out of the bag of an Olympian on the same flight! Since gold didn't really go with her outfit that day, Casey decided to be that good samaritan and turn it in (wouldn't you? we hope). So now she's going to be featured on The Today show Wednesday! But with every good deed, exciting aftermath, and TV appearance, comes the age-old question--- what do I wear? Well, SheFinds is here to help:

There are some very specific pointers when dressing for TV that actually make it much easier than deciding what to throw on for a cocktail party. First, stay away from solid black or white, or anything with small patterns on it. The two solid colors make you look like a floating head, while tiny patterns tend to give an illusory dancing effect in front of the camera. Next rule—dress in separates. Since you will be miked, they have to attach the big fat pack to the back of you somehow and you certainly don't want them going up the bottom of your dress. A colorful sleeveless top (it gets hot under those lights) in rich purple or another bold hue is a perfect choice paired with a subtly patterned pencil skirt. Just make sure the skirt is long enough so that it doesn't ride up when you sit down. Throw on a classic charcoal blazer over the top to bring together the look. 

Keep accessories to a minimum. Avoid jewelry that makes a lot of noise—and be especially wary of necklaces that will hit against your mike. One big statement bracelet will do the trick, paired with simple, elegant diamond studs to catch the light around your face. 

Since I always see Meredith and Ann complimenting guests on their shoes, go a little out of your comfort zone with some patent booties instead of the usual, expected pumps. They are versatile enough to work with any color palette, and the V cut will elongate your legs on camera. 

Lastly, don't forget your glam shades as you step from your town car into the studio—why not?  

Celine Ribbon Top, $1000

McQ Dotty Wool Jacket, $705

Miu Miu Tweed Skirt, $820 

Grey Patent Ankle Boots, $537

Burberry Bangle, $43/week (Bag Borrow Or Steal) 

Stud Earrings, $40

Sunglasses, $360

You can also view this set right now on Polyvore.com where we welcome all of our readers to join the SheFinds Group and create your own sets, letting us know what you'd wear to take over TV.